Chris Saridakis

Professional Background

Chris S. is an accomplished and innovative leader in the fields of technology and finance, with a robust career spanning over two decades. He has made significant strides in both the private and educational sectors, showcasing a deep commitment to excellence and an ability to drive transformation in competitive environments. Currently, he is the Founder and Managing Partner at Great Barn Ventures, where he leverages his extensive experience to foster growth in emerging startups.

Before establishing Great Barn Ventures, Chris held various senior leadership roles at prominent companies, including eBay and Gannett Inc., leading digital transformations that have had lasting impacts on the industry. His tenure as Senior Vice President and President of eBay Enterprise is marked by remarkable achievements in integrating technology with business strategy, enhancing digital marketing solutions, and optimizing operational efficiencies. In his role as Chief Digital Officer at Gannett Inc., he played a pivotal role in reinforcing the company's digital capabilities, thus expanding its influence in the media landscape.

Additionally, Chris served as the Chief Executive Officer at PointRoll, Inc., a digital marketing and advertising solutions firm that was eventually acquired by Gannett Inc. His expertise in digital equity and analytics was instrumental in PointRoll’s successful integration into Gannett's broader portfolio. Chris’s background at DoubleClick Inc. as Sr. Vice President and General Manager further highlights his competency in digital advertising technologies, leading initiatives that contributed to DoubleClick's acquisition by Google.

Beyond his industry accomplishments, Chris has also made valuable contributions to academia. As a former lecturer at his alma mater, Columbia University, he has shared his wealth of knowledge and experience with aspiring students, fostering the next generation of tech innovators and business leaders.

Education and Achievements

Chris's educational background lays a solid foundation for his professional achievements. He earned his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Computer/Information Technology Management from Columbia University in the City of New York. This advanced education has equipped him with strong analytical and technological insights, enabling him to navigate complex information systems and contribute effectively to tech-driven organizations.

Additionally, Chris brings an MBA in Corporate Finance and Management from the Fordham Gabelli School of Business, enriching his capability to make informed business decisions supported by solid financial acumen. His undergraduate studies in Economics at Adelphi University provided him with an understanding of economic principles, further enhancing his strategic thinking and planning skills.

Chris has not only excelled academically but also continuously sought opportunities to amplify his expertise and influence within the industries he operates. His ability to merge technological proficiency with business strategies is a testament to his dynamic skill set, allowing him to create impactful solutions that resonate within the fast-paced hardware and software markets.

Key Achievements

Throughout his illustrious career, Chris S. has amassed numerous notable achievements that reflect his leadership prowess and innovative mindset. Under his leadership at eBay Enterprise, he successfully drove a transformation strategy that significantly improved revenue and market share, establishing the company as a strong contender in the e-commerce sector. His insight into digital marketing trends allowed eBay to expand its advertising offerings, bringing forth enhanced solutions that catered to the evolving needs of businesses.

While at Gannett Inc., Chris was pivotal in few strategic initiatives that elevated the company's digital presence, including the optimization of content delivery systems and advanced data analytics methodologies. His comprehensive understanding of the digital landscape enabled Gannett to adapt to changing market dynamics and consumer behaviors, solidifying its status as a leader in the modern media ecosystem.

At DoubleClick, Chris was key in orchestrating innovative projects that propelled the company's capabilities in real-time bidding and online advertising management—a development that set new standards in the advertising technology sector.

Chris's previous experience at prestigious firms such as Thomson Reuters and Lehman Brothers reflects a robust capability in financial management and corporate finance strategies, showcasing a diverse industry background that complements his technology-focused roles.

Chris S.'s career is a brilliant blend of leadership, innovation, and academic influence, making him a distinguished figure in the fields of technology and finance. His endeavors at Great Barn Ventures not only continue to underline his commitment to facilitating growth for startups but also emphasize his passion for transforming ideas into successful business models.